Understanding Thai people

Often referred to as ‘The Land of Smiles,’ Thailand is famous for its culture and people’s welcoming and warm temperament.

Rice farms and elaborate temples are weaved in and around busy, sophisticated cities, reflecting the diversity of landscapes and lifestyles. 

Thailand’s Diversity

Being a historically independent Asian kingdom, Thailand is highly influenced by its traditions. Buddhism and the monarchy have traditionally been seen as sources of order and equilibrium in society and continue to act as symbols of unity for the Thai people.

Yet, the culture is also accommodating of contemporary practices and values. Many Thai people have embraced progressive ideas as their country has globalized. This is echoed in the country’s capital, Bangkok, an energetic cosmopolitan city comprising a melting pot of traditional influences and modern attitudes.

Thai Societal Structure

Even though Thailand is frequently promoted as a ‘partying’ tourist destination, Thai society is relatively modest and conservative. The notion of ‘face’ is one of the reinforcement factors influencing how Thais behave and interact with one another. Face refers to a person’s or a collective’s reputation, dignity, and honor.

One can give face through actions such as praising a person, displaying respect, or increasing another’s self-esteem. Moreover, indicating someone’s error, rebuking them, or raising one’s voice are all seen as traits that can cause a loss of face and bring shame.

Therefore, face can also be lost, saved, or maintained. In cultures aware of face, individuals typically act purposefully and with discretion to protect their self-worth and peer perception.

Conservative conduct is the norm as people wish to maintain harmony with each other and show everyone the respect they deserve.

Thais are often contemplative and deliberate in presenting themselves to preserve peace and minimize the risk of losing face. A pleasant demeanour and calm disposition are the norms, while extreme displays of negative emotions (e.g., anger, selfishness) or eruptions are avoided.

Many social exchanges among Thai people consider another individual’s status relative to oneself (i.e., level of education, age, type of employment, and position).

In nearly all cases, how one sits, walks, or interacts with others will hinge upon the status of each person present. Consequently, it is not abnormal for Thais to ask personal questions to discern your position to ensure they address you correctly and behave appropriately.

For example, Thai people indicate respect with the deepness of a Wai (See Below) and by conferring or showing honour or respect that indicates both affection and relation. On a more comprehensive level, the highest level of respect is vested in the king and the monastic community.

While Thailand has a particular amount of social mobility, people typically do not contest the hierarchical structure. Instead, they tend to observe the chain of power and accept the contrasts in status among people. 

Being a collectivistic society, a vital priority is placed on honouring and being loyal to one’s family. Indeed, loyalty to one’s family, friends, or community will sometimes override social rules. For example, Thais rarely endanger the interests of the collective group and often take responsibility for fellow members.

In 1939, the country changed its name from ‘Siam’ to ‘Thailand,’ conveying “the Land of the Free.” This rhetoric of freedom has since played an influential role in creating Thailand’s national identity.

Thai people value their freedom of personal expression, speech, and religion. The country’s history of circumventing colonization by European nation-states has also contributed to the sense of pride and value in freedom and independence. 

“Mai pen rai” (never mind) is a Thai phrase that echoes the overarching approach to life that “it is to be enjoyed.” Thais generally have a strong work ethic yet are simultaneously inclined to be content with what they have.

This perspective is reflected in ‘Sanuk,’ the effort to accomplish satisfaction in whatever one does and make the most of any circumstance. This can be seen in how some Thais inject playfulness and fun into ordinary activities. It is common to see Thai people smiling and laughing when interacting with others.

Greetings

In formal and informal situations, Thai people greet each other with the word ‘Sawasdee’ followed by ‘kah’ for females and ‘krap’ for males.

It is normal to refer to someone of a perceived higher status by the title ‘Khun’ (Mr/Ms/Miss/Mrs) followed by their first name. 

People of the same age or who are close friends will omit the use of the title ‘Khun.’

The Wai

Greetings are accompanied by the movement known as a ‘Wai,’ which is placing two palms together, with fingertips touching the nose. A Wai demonstrates respect for another person and is an acknowledgement of seniority. People should bow their heads with their palms pushed together to show respect. The deepness of the bow and the height of the hands conveys a level of respect. 

A senior individual may politely Wai in response to a person who is younger or subordinate to them. This is usually done with their hands at chest level (fingertips not touching the face) and only a slight bowing of the head, resembling a nod. This Wai, known as a ‘Rup Wai,’ is an acknowledgement of the other person.

To demonstrate esteem for parents, teachers, and the senior members of society, the pushed palms of the Wai should be higher so that the thumbs meet the nose and the fingertips sit between the eyebrows. (See below)

To demonstrate esteem for people of the same age or employment position (peer to peer), the pushed palms of the Wai should be higher so that the thumbs meet the chin, and the fingertips sit below the nose. (See below)

There is a Wai dedicated to Buddha images, monks, and the royal family that involves prostration. This Wai is only for religious or royal situations. (See below)

When engaged in interactions with Thai people, the Wai is imperative; the absence of a Wai will result in an individual being considered rude and inconsiderate and not attempting to assimilate into Thai culture. 

When not to Wai

When interacting with people in the service industry, cafes, shops, 7/11, restaurants, security guards, massage shops, taxi drivers, etc..., regardless of their age. It’s important to note that improper use of a Wai can make others feel a little confused.

What is noteworthy is that trying to show respect is always appreciated in Thailand, so don’t overthink when in doubt, Wai. 

Relevant

1. Go to kidsenglishthailand.org/teacher-training-program-thailand to read about Meaningful Work and Travel Teaching Positions starting in May 2023 with teacher training in April 2023.

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